There is something about fall — it’s a romantic time of the year. Maybe it's the changing leaves or the gray skies, but this season helps create the backdrop for some of the coziest date nights. Our relationships can take a cue from this season of change, and we can use it as a time to start a shared hobby or learn a new skill with our partners. With so many autumnal activities to choose from, it's easy to find a fun replacement for your beach days or typical Friday night pizza routine. Whether it's a pumpkin-themed dinner for two or a bike ride through falling leaves, fall is the perfect time to embrace change and try new things.
Oktoberfest Backyard Date Night
Oktoberfest is an experience, but for those of us who have never traveled to Germany for the real thing, recreating this date night in your own backyard is quite simple. Start prepping your backyard by finding a long table, benches, and a few beer steins (patio furniture and normal glasses work too!). String outdoor lights to create a fun ambiance when it gets dark outside. Also, a few blankets to keep warm during the evening is key to being comfortable outdoors. Next, Oktoberfest food is a must: sausages, Bavarian pretzels, and beer should be on the menu, along with German chocolate cake for dessert. Prost to a creative date night and shared new experiences!
Local Bookstore Day Date
Don’t let unpredictable weather during the fall months ruin your date plans — whether rainy, dreary, or all of the above, plan to move your date inside. One idea is to visit your local bookstore with your partner, grab a coffee, and take time to peruse the aisles of books. You can learn a lot about your date’s interests by the books he or she picks. Whether it is science fiction or historical biographies, taking notice of your partner’s interests can help build connection in your relationship. According to this Better Help article, “If you want to understand someone that you love, then you should be willing to take the time to learn more about them.” Extend the bookstore date further by choosing to read a novel together, almost like a very small book club. Make time to discuss your book because great conversation can help grow your relationship in a new way.
Fall-themed Cooking Class
Food makes the heart grow fonder — or maybe its full stomachs, full hearts? Either way, cooking with your significant other is an activity that requires coordination in the kitchen. Skill level may vary between you and your partner, but finding a cooking class centered around a fall dish is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Local restaurants will often offer classes in the afternoon, or sometimes a community center will teach a class as well. The menu could consist of butternut squash gnocchi with sage butter or a roast chicken with rosemary and sweet potatoes. Regardless of the dish, learning together is the important part of this date. According to Weiler Counseling, “Play is one of the ways that we can destress and reconnect with our partner. Partners who play together often have better relationship satisfaction and overall life satisfaction.” And while cooking can seem like a chore, doing it with someone else can make it feel like play.
Fall Foliage Bike Ride
Autumn can be a really beautiful time to get outdoors. With the leaves changing colors and the air feeling crisp, a bike ride through the foliage is a great way to soak in this special season. When planning a bike ride date, find a location that has biking access, whether it's a park or bike path through your city. Next, pack a picnic — mini sandwiches, fruit, and a sweet treat make for a nice little stop in the middle of your date. While an activity like bike riding doesn’t always leave room for ample conversation, it is the quiet, shared moments of a unified hobby that can nurture your relationship as well.
Pumpkin Carving Competition
’Tis the season to grab a pumpkin, or a few, and invite your significant other to a pumpkin-centered date. Start with a pumpkin-themed dinner — might we suggest pumpkin soup with a side of pumpkin bread? — and afterwards, set up a friendly pumpkin carving contest where you can each show off your skills. There’s nothing like some friendly competition to keep things fresh and exciting! Up the competition ante with a prize — the winner chooses dessert!
Fall in love with autumn this year and reconnect with your partner by trying something new. This season reminds us that change can be a sign of good things to come. So whether you are trying a different activity or learning a new skill, evolving with your significant other can help you grow together.
